Let me tell you, there’s something magical about a one-pan meal, and my Chicken & Green Beans Skillet is a perfect example! It’s incredibly simple, yet bursting with flavor. I whip this up on those busy weeknights when I need a delicious dinner on the table in no time. The best part? It all happens in just one skillet, which means less cleanup—yay! I remember the first time I made this dish; my family couldn’t get enough of the tender chicken and perfectly crisp green beans, all coated in that garlicky goodness. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this quick and satisfying recipe in your rotation. It’s a go-to for me, and I know it’ll be for you too!
Ingredients for Chicken & Green Beans Skillet
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed and ready to go
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for that perfect sauté
- 3 cloves garlic, minced to maximize flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for a little kick
- 1 teaspoon paprika to give it that warm color
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a zesty finish
How to Prepare Chicken & Green Beans Skillet
Alright, let’s dive into the steps to make this fantastic Chicken & Green Beans Skillet! It’s super straightforward and flows beautifully, so just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First things first, grab your skillet and heat up those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This step is crucial because it helps create that lovely sautéing environment without burning your ingredients. You want the oil to shimmer just a bit, indicating it’s hot and ready for action. Trust me, a properly heated skillet makes all the difference!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Now, toss in your diced chicken breast and spread it out evenly. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on the outside. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink in the middle—super important for safety! I love that golden hue it gets; it adds so much flavor!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Next up, add the minced garlic! Oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen is incredible! Sauté it for about 1 minute, but be careful here—garlic can burn quickly. You just want it to become fragrant and a little golden, which is when it’s at its peak flavor. Don’t walk away; this part goes fast!
Step 4: Add Green Beans and Seasonings
Now, let’s bring in those beautiful green beans along with the salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes more. You want the beans to become tender but still have a nice crunch. The colors in the skillet are just stunning at this point! Keep an eye on them; you want them vibrant!
Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice
Lastly, it’s time to brighten everything up with that tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir it in just before serving, and wow, what a difference it makes! The lemon adds a fresh zing that really ties all the flavors together. You’re ready to serve hot, and believe me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chicken & Green Beans Skillet comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze—who doesn’t love that?
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, paprika, and lemon juice brings a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Healthy Option: Loaded with lean protein and nutritious green beans, this meal is both satisfying and good for you.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the veggies or seasonings based on what you have on hand or your personal taste!
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and colorful presentation make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tips for Success
To make your Chicken & Green Beans Skillet truly shine, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you like a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes! And if you prefer a milder flavor, just dial back on the paprika. Timing is key, so keep an eye on your green beans—they should be tender yet crisp, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. When serving, I love pairing this dish with a side of fluffy rice or whole grain pasta to soak up the delicious juices. Oh, and don’t forget to garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for that pop of color and flavor. You’ll impress everyone with these simple tweaks!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for each serving of my Chicken & Green Beans Skillet. Keep in mind that these are estimates based on the ingredients used, and your specific values may vary a bit depending on brands or any tweaks you make.
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with lean protein and nutritious veggies, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re fueling your body right!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas work wonderfully in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time based on the veggies you choose to ensure they’re tender yet crisp.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating on the stovetop for the best texture, just a few minutes until everything is warmed through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time and store the ingredients separately in the fridge. Then, just heat up your skillet when you’re ready to cook. It’ll save you time on busy nights!
What can I serve with this Chicken & Green Beans Skillet?
I love serving this with a side of rice or whole grain pasta to soak up all those delicious flavors. You could also pair it with a fresh salad for some extra crunch!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Chicken & Green Beans Skillet is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check any additional sides or garnishes you plan to use!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Chicken & Green Beans Skillet is super easy! Just grab an airtight container and transfer any leftovers into it. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I find it’s best to let the dish cool down a bit before sealing it up, as this helps maintain the texture. When you’re ready to enjoy those delicious leftovers, I recommend reheating them on the stovetop. Just place the skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally until everything is warmed through—this usually takes about 5 minutes. If you prefer using a microwave, pop it in for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Just be careful not to overheat it, or you might lose that lovely crunch in the green beans. Enjoy your meal again, it’s just as good the next day!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try my Chicken & Green Beans Skillet! It’s such a delightful dish that brings together simplicity and flavor in the best way. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you add any of your own twists? Maybe a different veggie or spice? Feel free to leave a comment below and share your experiences or any questions you might have! And if you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be thrilled if you rated it. Your feedback means the world to me and helps others find this tasty meal. Happy cooking, and I hope this becomes a family favorite just like it is in mine!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog or try making protein cookies for a healthy snack!
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Chicken & Green Beans Skillet: 5-Ingredient Joy
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and easy chicken and green beans dish cooked in one skillet.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add green beans, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until beans are tender.
- Stir in lemon juice and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with rice or pasta if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken & Green Beans Skillet